Botswana

Botswana is one of Africa’s last pristine lands and offers its visitors beautiful scenery and prolific big game in equal measure - from the watery paradise of the Okavango Delta, to the shimmering white saltpans of the Makgadikgadi; the majestic baobab trees of the Kalahari or the elephants drinking at dusk from the Chobe river.

Malawi

Mauritius

The tropical gardens and infinity pools of chic luxury resorts in Mauritius give way to dazzling sands lapped by azure waters. Holidays to Mauritius offers five star hospitality, a melting pot of cultures and idyllic tropical scenery.

Southern Africa Culture & Wildlife Holiday

This 12 night Southern Africa Culture & Wildlife guided safari tour is ideal for those who are keen to get a well-rounded perspective on Southern Africa. And not just the scenic highlights and stunning game-viewing. But also an insight into its history, its culture and how various groups within society live. Overall it is an immensely enjoyable safari tour.

You begin in Cape Town with 3 nights at the Radisson Blu. This is ideal for you to explore the sights and sounds of the city centre. Whilst in Cape Town, you enjoying a walking tour of the city, a choice of tours in the townships (one by bicycle) as well as an afternoon visit to the Cape Winelands and a scenic tour of the Cape Peninsula. There is also some free time when you can head up Table Mountain by cable car. Or explore the waterfront and the street markets of Greenmarket Square.

Next you head to South Africa’s foremost safari destination, the Kruger National Park. You spend 3 nights on safari in the renowned Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve. Then you head to Johannesburg, the commercial capital of South Africa for 2 nights. Many people have pre-conceived ideas about Johannesburg. So its good to see it for yourself and make your own mind up. Here again, you have a choice of tours. Most people opt for a full day tour of Soweto, the Apartheid Museum and the city highlights. But you can also visit the Cradle of Humankind instead (combining this the Apartheid Museum OR Soweto). Or you can enjoy a guided tour of some of Johannesburg’s art galleries and museums.

Finally you fly up to Victoria Falls. Here you enjoy the majesty of the Falls as well as a tour of the local community, a sunset cruise and a traditional African dinner at The Boma. There’s also time to enjoy various optional tours.

Tailor-made Options:

It goes without saying that you can easily add extra nights in the Central Kalahari to make a more leisurely cultural & safari experience. Or maybe ending your experience at a luxurious beach resort in Mozambique.

Arrive in Cape Town, Transfer to the Radisson Blu, 3 nights B&B

From Cape Town Airport you are met and transferred to The Radisson Blu in Cape Town. The rest of the day is at leisure

Cape Town is one of the most beautifully situated cities in the world. Cradled by Table Mountain, it has immense charm and historical interest whilst its unique cultural blend; part African, part European and part Asian, makes for a cosmopolitan dining experience.

The five star Radisson Blu Waterfront in Cape Town is set on the water’s edge overlooking its own private yacht marina and Granger Bay with views out to Robben Island beyond. It lies adjacent to the vibrant V&A Waterfront in Cape Town, an easy 5-10 minutes’ walk away with complimentary shuttles also available.

The Radisson Blu exudes a relaxed charm: it has the feel of a luxurious beach hotel yet it is close to all the action of the city and the Waterfront. Standard rooms at Radisson Blu Waterfront face the city and Table Mountain, superior rooms have partial sea or marina views whilst the one or two bedroom suites have wonderful sea and marina views. All rooms have air-conditioning, telephone, satellite TV, high speed complimentary wifi, minibar, tea/coffee facilities (with espresso machines) and large bathrooms with large bath and separate shower.

City & Robben Island tour

You depart for a private city orientation tour followed by a scheduled tour to Robben Island. The tour begins with a trip up Table Mountain by cable car for a panoramic view of the whole of the Cape Peninsula. There is time for a short walk at the summit to admire the incredible scenery. Note that the cable car tickets are for your own account as the ascent is weather dependent.

Afterwards you travel into the city where you first visit the Castle of Good Hope, the original fort of Cape Town built in 1652. From there you continue to the historic centre of Cape Town with its many 18th century buildings where there is time to visit two or three of Cape Town’s museums and you may like to enjoy a stroll through the Company Gardens past the Parliament buildings. Finally you explore the picturesque Malay quarter, a historic sector of the city with original Malay buildings and narrow streets before heading to the Waterfront where there is time for a light lunch (for your own account).

After lunch you make your way to the Clock Tower to board the 3pm ferry to the Island, enjoying spectacular views of Cape Town and Table Mountain as you sail across the bay to this historic island. The 3 to 3½ scheduled tour includes a return trip across Table Bay (30 minute ferry ride each way) a visit to the historical Maximum Security Prison and tour of the island. Note that only official Robben Island guides are permitted to offer tours, so your private guide will not accompany you.

Once you reach the island you will be given a guided prison tour by an ex-political prisoner. You experience the conditions of incarceration – view Nelson Mandela’s maximum-security prison cell (Cell 5) and see the lime quarries. In the one, hard labour was served, in the other prisoners discussed strategy, freedom and future. Later, many prisoners would develop eye problems as a result of the sun’s reflection off the lime surfaces.

This well-preserved landmark is a monument to the triumph of freedom, dignity and determination over humiliation and oppression. Time permitting you can explore the attractions on the island, such as the museum shop, the Muslim shrine or kramat. You return to Cape Town in the late afternoon at approx 6 to 6.30pm and your guide will transfer you back to your hotel.

Day 3

Scheduled Cape Peninsula Tour

This morning you are collected from your hotel for your full day Cape Peninsula tour. Our Cape Peninsula tour is an awe-inspiring tour to the towering headland known as Cape Point. The tour takes in magnificent beaches, views and picturesque villages on the way with a scenic coastal drive along Chapmans Peak; the Cape Point National Park; viewing the Penguins at Boulders Bay; Simonstown historical naval base and the magnificent Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens.

Today you are collected for a half day tour either to the Uthando Projects or to enjoy a tour to the townships either by car or even by bicycle if you are interested.

Uthando Projects is an NGO (Not For Profit organization) which channels money from the Tourism Industry into a variety of income generating projects within Cape Town. It also offers tailor made, unique and authentic cultural trips, visiting these projects. Thus you can have a direct insight into the remarkable stories that make life in South Africa so interesting, dynamic and very importantly, inspiring. The tours are interactive, meeting the people at the various projects, learning about their work and way of life, first hand. The morning tours typically visit 3 or 4 different projects (of the 20 projects currently running). We like these tours because it gives you a chance to meet some local people, see what they are doing and also contribute financially. However if you would prefer a more classic township tour, this is also on offer.

Winelands half day scheduled tour in the afternoon

After lunch (for your own account), we head to the Cape Winelands. Here the stunning backdrop of the Hottentots Holland Mountains, the tree-lined streets and the white gabled Cape Dutch homesteads all blend in tranquil harmony. Our first stop is for some wine tasting at a boutique wine estate. Here you have the perfect opportunity to experience the rich historical and architectural traditions of the region. After a tour through their cellars, there’s a chance to sample some of their local wines as well as a cheese tasting. You then head to Stellenbosch. It is easy to see why Simon Van der Stel decided to build a village in such a charming spot and the walking tour gives you a great overview of the history and culture of this pretty town. Then you return to Cape Town in the late afternoon.

The Oude Werf Hotel Elegance and ambience are the bywords of the Oude Werf hotel, situated in the heart of historic Stellenbosch. The Oude Werf Hotel is South Africa’s oldest hotel and was built on the site of South Africa’s first church. The Georgian Cape Dutch entrance sets the tone for the gracious reception hall.

Yet the Oude Werf has undergone one of the most dramatic transformations of any South African hotel in recent years completely revamping all the bedrooms and the public areas to showcase a modern contemporary style within the shell of this historic building.

The contemporary bedrooms of the Oude Werf Hotel combine period styling in the rooms with modern furniture and glamourous modern bathrooms. This makes for a pleasant juxtaposition between the historic charm of the public areas. Each en suite bedroom is uniquely decorated with eclectic 21st Century comfort with easy chairs, minibar, television, tea and coffee facilities, hairdryers and air-conditioning. The Oude Werf Hotel offers a choice of superior rooms or deluxe rooms. In the deluxe rooms, rich woods and textures offset signature elements such as the extravagant comforts of the classical four poster bed. All have spacious bathrooms with showers and walk-in dressing rooms.

Traditional Cape dishes are a speciality for lunches and dinners at the Oude Werf’s restaurant, and homemade cakes are served throughout the day in the garden. The Village Museum, art galleries, eclectic range of shops and boutiques as well as several good restaurants are all within easy walking distance of the Oude Werf Hotel.

Day 5

Transfer to the Airport to fly to Kruger for 3 nights on safari, Kirkmans Kamp, Fully Inclusive

This morning you are transferred to the airport for your flight to the Kruger (Skukuza Airport). The flight is not included at this stage in the tour price as it is subject to change.

On arrival at the airport, you are met and transferred to Kirkmans Kamp for your 3 night stay.

The 65,000 ha Sabi Sands is considered to have some of the best Big Five game-viewing in the country with an open border with the Kruger so animals move freely in and out. Due to a long history of sensitive game-viewing, the animals are mostly relaxed allowing superb game-viewing, especially of leopard.

So diverse is its habitat and wildlife that you have an excellent chance of experiencing close encounters with the ‘Big 5’ – elephant, rhino, buffalo, lion and leopard – as well as many species of antelope, several dog-like species including spotted hyena, wild dog, jackal, and a variety of smaller mammals.

Situated in the eastern part of the Sabi Sands, adjacent to the Kruger Park, the elegant Kirkman’s Kamp is on an elevated site overlooking the Sand River with glorious views of the bush veld. It is one of the best loved of all the Sabi Sands lodges. The lodge oozes with old colonial charm, reminiscent of a traditional 1920’s safari camp. You step back in time when you enter the original homestead which is now the lodge’s sitting room, bar and dining area. The 18 air-conditioned bedrooms are simple, spacious and attractive with private verandas overlooking the riverbed.

Fly to Johannesburg for 2 nights The Peech Hotel, B&B

After your morning game drive, you are transferred back to Skukuza Airport for your flight to Johannesburg (not included).

On arrival in Johannesburg, you are met and transferred to The Peech Boutique Hotel for your 2 night stay.

Known to the locals as “E’Goli” or City of Gold, Johannesburg is the pulsating heart of South Africa’s industrial and commercial life where gold mining still continues. There are some truly superb hotels and fascinating activities such as cultural visits to Soweto, the Apartheid Museum or even a working diamond mine. Sterkfontein in the Cradle of Humankind World Heritage Site is well worth a visit. Arts and craft galleries abound and this is a very good place to buy diamonds.

The Peech Hotel is Johannesburg’s eco-chic boutique hotel. Set in the suburb of Melrose, the hotel has sixteen bedrooms spread over a lush one-acre garden, a sophisticated bistro restaurant, swimming pool with loungers and hanging chairs for relaxing. The hotel is opposite the James Gray Park and next to the Planet Fitness Wanderers gym; gym access vouchers can be purchased at the hotel reception.

Day 9

Choice of full day private cultural tours

Today you have a choice of tours. Most people opt for a full day tour of Soweto, the Apartheid Museum and the city highlights. But you can also opt to visit the Cradle of Humankind instead (perhaps combining it with the Apartheid Museum OR Soweto) or you can enjoy a tour of some of Johannesburg’s art galleries and museums.

Soweto, Apartheid Museum & Johannesburg

Our tour is designed to give visitors to this area an overall impression of Johannesburg. It takes an in-depth look at the history of apartheid, its impact on Johannesburg and the role of the city in shaping South Africa’s future. The tour begins with a short drive through the suburbs of Illovo, Rosebank and Houghton, passing Nelson Mandela’s old residence en route to Soweto (SOuth WEstern TOwnship), the largest black residential area in South Africa. Here we see a fascinating contrast to the richer suburbs of Rosebank and Sandton in the north. This sprawling ‘city within a city’ is home to approximately 2-million people. The tour includes all the major points of interest, such as Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital, Baragwanath taxi rank, Freedom Square and Hector Pieterson Memorial. After lunch (for your own account) we visit the Apartheid Museum. Here you may embark on a historical voyage of discovery, a personal exploration of the past that examines the story of apartheid right up to Nelson Mandela’s release from prison in 1990 and the first democratic elections held in 1994.

There is a choice of tours, so if you prefer to see Sterkfontein Caves with either Soweto or the Apartheid Museum, or another tour, this is all possible…

Today you are transferred back to the airport for your flight to Victoria Falls (not included). On arrival you are met and transferred to The Victoria Falls Hotel or Ilala Lodge (subject to availability) for your 3 night stay.

The Victoria Falls is a dramatic scenic contrast and a change of pace from the private game reserves you have seen so far. It is a sight not to be missed – the clouds of spray generated by this thunderous descent have resulted in a lush rain forest full of stunning wild flowers.

A host of activities are centered on three separate delights: the Falls, the magnificent Zambezi River and the surrounding Zambezi National Park. To gain an overall impression of the Falls, the helicopter ‘Flight of Angels‘ is essential. A microlight ride and bungee jumping are available for the truly daring. The Zambezi River has two characters – the wide gentle river above the Falls is the perfect place for languorous sunset boat cruises or gentle canoeing, whilst below the Falls, the more adventurous can enjoy serious white-water rafting or jet-boating.

The Victoria Falls Hotel, known as the ‘Grand old lady of the Falls’ has the best location in town and is a leisurely 10 minute walk to the Falls. It lies in the Victoria Falls National Park, a world heritage site, and is the closest hotel to the Victoria Falls on the Zimbabwe side. This venerable five star hotel, built in 1904 has now been completely refurbished and combines the charm of the old with the luxury of the new. Soak up the elegant Edwardian ambience as you sip cocktails on the terrace, which has a spectacular view of the ‘smoke that thunders’. The hotel is set in lush tropical gardens, with lily ponds, palm trees and semi-tropical shrubs offering tranquility and seclusion.

In the late afternoon you are driven to the jetty on the Zambezi River for a sunset boat cruise. The boat meanders slowly upstream looking for game on the way. A number of animals and plenty of bird species can be viewed from comfortable chairs on cool wooden decks. Canapés are served on board and the bar is well stocked with spirits, good wines, beers and soft drinks. There is also an option to enjoy dinner on the Zambezi River for an additional supplement.

Day 12

Morning Scheduled Township Tour & Dinner at The Boma

The word Chinotimba describes the roar of the water from the mighty Victoria Falls in the local Nambya language. The Nambya and the Tonga people are the original people of the Victoria Falls area. The majority of people in Victoria Falls live in the Chinotimba township, which has a population of approximately 60,000 people. On the tour, you will have an opportunity to observe township-life – from the oldest houses to the taverns, the local market and churches.

During a visit to the Chinotimba Primary School (subject to the schools being open) you are introduced to the school headmaster and then he or another teacher will take you on a tour of the school after which the children may sing their school song.

In the early evening you have a transfer to the Boma Restaurant in Victoria Falls. Dinner is buffet style, and consists of a wide variety of game meats, local dishes, vegetarian options, salads and accompaniments, as well as a range of desserts. During dinner, dancers perform at various intervals – traditional African style, to suit the ambience of this vibey venue. Tea/coffee ends the meal, and a cash bar is available. You are transferred back to the hotel later. The duration of the dinner tour is approximately 3 hours (flexible).

Tailormade options

You can change the order of these tours to fit in additional tours. You can also substitute another tour and we just charge you the difference between these suggested tours and your chosen tours.

Day 13

Today you are transferred back to Victoria Falls Airport for your flight to Johannesburg (not included).

Radisson Blu Waterfront Hotel

The five star Radisson Blu Waterfront in Cape Town is set on the water’s edge overlooking its own private yacht marina and Granger Bay with views out to Robben Island beyond. It lies adjacent to the vibrant V&A Waterfront, only an easy 5-10 minutes’ walk away with complimentary shuttles also available.

andBeyond Kirkman’s Kamp

The elegant Kirkman’s Kamp is on an elevated site overlooking the Sand River. It is one of the original and best loved of all the Sabi Sands lodges, oozing with old colonial charm, reminiscent of a traditional 1920’s safari camp.

Victoria Falls Hotel

The Victoria Falls Hotel has the best location in town. Soak up the elegant Edwardian ambience as you sip cocktails on the terrace, which has a spectacular view of the ‘smoke that thunders’. The 161 rooms at Victoria Falls Hotel have a gracious colonial style with a choice of standard or deluxe rooms, executive suites and royal suite to suit all tastes.

Ilala Lodge Hotel

Ilala Lodge is a friendly small hotel bordering the Victoria Falls National Park so the Falls are an easy walk away. There are 34 charming rooms set in spacious lawns with a pleasant pool, pool bar and good restaurant. What more could you want?

Flights

Regional flights are not included in the price above as they are subject to change. This sample trip starts in Cape Town and ends in Victoria Falls so you need a number of additional flights: from Cape Town to Skukuza (Kruger), from Skukuza to Johannesburg and from Johannesburg to Victoria Falls and back again. We will quote on these flights at time of enquiry but you should budget on between $1500 and $2,100 per person, subject to availability.

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